Oxygen Sensor: Description and Operation

Oxgens Sensors:

SENSOR PURPOSE
The Engine Control Module (ECM) uses this input to determine whether to enrich or lean air/fuel mixture, during closed loop operation.

Oxygen Sensor (Heated):

SENSOR OPERATION
The sensor generates a voltage between 0 and 1.0 volts dependant on difference between unused oxygen in exhaust gas and oxygen outside exhaust system.

HEATER PURPOSE
Allows vehicle to enter CLOSED LOOP sooner, (because sensor reaches operating temperature sooner).

Allows CLOSED LOOP operation during extended idle, (because heater maintains correct operating temperature).